Tag Archives: madison avenue couture

If you’ve been coveting an Hermès Birkin bag from afar, today is your lucky day. Starting at noon ET on Gilt, you’ll have access to exquisite vintage versions from New York’s appointment-only showroom Madison Avenue Couture. And while there are countless reasons to love a Birkin, here are five to remind you why buying one is a decision you won’t regret. (Shopping tip: Come back at 11:45 am, because these handbags will go quickly.)

1. They’re the ultimate status symbol: While years-long wait lists may be a thing of the past, the ultra-exclusive handbags still aren’t easy to come by, aren’t any less expensive, and are carried by the most stylish women in the world.

2. They’re truly one of a kind: Each bag is handcrafted by a single person in France, from start to finish.

3. They keep their value: Gently used Birkins resell for 80% to 120% of their original price.

4. They look even better with age: The high-quality leather, hardware, and techniques like pearling (nailing the hardware to the bags rather than screwing it on) and saddle stitching (even if a stitch or two comes out, the rest will stay in place and not unravel), help the bags age gracefully and stay in top shape over time.

5. Even celebrities pay full price: Many luxury brands gift A-listers unlimited freebies, but not Hermès—making it even more legit when you see mega fans like Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, and Kate Moss carrying their favorites.

Become an art world bigwig — without taking out a second mortgage — with today’s collector’s-worthy mix of vintage Louis Vuitton handbags (brought to you by Madison Avenue Couture, an appointment-only boutique in New York City). The instantly recognizable collaborations include designs by famed artists like (clockwise from top left) Richard Prince, Takashi Murakami, Yayoi Kusama, and Stephen Sprouse. Get inspired by their original artwork and score your favorite bag before someone else beats you to it!